If you are a diligent vehicle owner and regularly check your transmission fluid, it is not only helpful to know “how” to check the fluid but “what” type of fluid to add in case your vehicle is low or you are doing a full replacement. In this month’s blog post, we focus on the function and relevance of transmission fluid, along with how to choose the right type of fluid to add or replace the existing supply.
What is the function of transmission fluid?
Your vehicle’s transmission is one of the hardest working systems in your vehicle. Whether you drive an automatic or manual transmission, this system controls the amount of power to your wheels to ensure your vehicle travels at the proper speed. Transmission fluid is critical to the function of the transmission, providing the moving parts with adequate lubrication and temperature management. The transmission fluid also aids in the power of some transmission components by acting as a hydraulic fluid.
How often should transmission fluid be replaced?
Transmission fluid will become dirty and less effective over time, because of contaminants and heat. During a routine check, a dark, gritty, or dirty fluid may indicate that it is a suitable time to replace the fluid.
While transmission fluid serves a similar purpose as motor oil does to the engine, it is not necessary to change the transmission fluid as often. Vehicle manufacturers may recommend a fluid change somewhere between thirty to fifty thousand miles driven. Your specific driving habits and conditions may play a role in how often it is changed. Also, if you drive a manual transmission, you may want to consider more frequent changes.
In addition to changing out fluid due to contaminants, your vehicle may sometimes lose some transmission fluid because of natural burn-off. If the fluid levels are frequently low, or you notice evidence of transmission fluid beneath your vehicle, you may be dealing with a leak. It is important to have your transmission checked for a leak as soon as you are able to avoid further problems or costly repairs to your transmission.
What are the different types of transmission fluid?
When making the decision to replace your existing transmission fluid, always check with your owner’s manual. Your vehicle manufacturer provides recommendations for the type and possibly the brand of transmission fluid. Following your vehicle manufacturer specifications ensures that you are maximizing the performance of your transmission.
Here are some considerations for picking the right transmission fluid:
Mercon and Dexron Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
These two brands are amongst the most popular products available to vehicle owners. Manufactured by Ford (Mercon) and GM (Dexron), these fluids are widely used for various vehicle makes and models, including foreign ones.
High Friction Modified (HFM) Style Fluid
HFM Style fluid shares similarities with Mercon and Dexron but is formulated with different friction properties to support specific vehicle makes and models. Friction properties are associated with the viscosity of the fluid. You may find HFM fluid under a variety of brand names available to retail customers.
Type F Fluid
Type F fluid is no longer used in vehicles, and was phased out in the 1970’s. This specific fluid was designed for use in Ford vehicles and is only used in vintage or antiques.
Conventional or Synthetic Fluid
Another consideration when choosing transmission fluid is to use either conventional (petroleum based) or synthetic (manufactured). Keep in mind that synthetic products cost more but have better properties to handle high heat and aging. Consult with your vehicle owner’s manual for recommendations on using a conventional or synthetic.
If you are not interested in rolling up your sleeves to replace your transmission fluid, have it done professionally. Give the service experts at Geller’s Automotive a call to schedule an inspection of your vehicle and any servicing to your transmission fluid.
